To till or not to till? Mini-Cassia farmers are answering that question as more lean toward alternative methods to grow crops. Always looking for a way to boost crop yields and reduce water usage, many farmers are shaking up the established method of preparing fields and planting seeds. Greater yields, less water use and richer soil are some primary benefits they see from new methods.

On Aug. 17, 70 people participated in a manure management and strip tillage field day near Milaca, Minn. hosted by the Mille Lacs Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and Used Natural Resources Conservation Service.